Robin Hood Junior School Review 2026: Academic Excellence in the Sutton Community

Robin Hood Junior School is a three form entry state school in the heart of Sutton, serving a diverse and academically ambitious community. Catering to 360 pupils between the ages of 7 and 11, the school provides a seamless transition from the nearby Robin Hood Infants. The school's 2024 Key Stage 2 results are exceptional, placing it among the highest performing schools in England (top 10%). With a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire, the school has cultivated a reputation for high standards and a calm, purposeful learning environment.

The atmosphere at Robin Hood Junior School is one of focused energy. Located on Thorncroft Road, the school occupies a site that feels both established and modern. Following the retirement of long serving head Mrs Elisabeth Broers, the school appointed Mr Lee Webster as the new head teacher from 1 September 2025. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for the school as it builds on its strong foundations and standing in the local community.

The school motto, Be the best you can be, is visible throughout the school and reflected in the pupils' attitudes toward their work. Walking through the corridors, one observes a high degree of order and engagement. The school works closely with its "federated" partner, the infant school, ensuring that the shift from Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 2 is handled with care. This partnership creates a continuous educational journey for local families, spanning from the ages of 3 to 11.

The academic outcomes at Robin Hood Junior School are a significant draw for local families. In 2024, 86.7% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and mathematics combined, significantly outperforming the England average of 62%. This high level of attainment is consistent across all core subjects.

Mathematics is a particular strength, with 91% of pupils reaching the expected standard. The school's performance at the higher standard is even more striking; 41.3% of pupils achieved the higher standard in reading, writing, and mathematics, compared to an England average of 8%.

Ranked 810th in England for primary outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the school sits in the top tier of schools in England. Locally, it ranks 10th among all primaries in Sutton, a borough known for its high educational standards. These proprietary rankings reflect the school's ability to stretch its most able pupils while ensuring the vast majority meet or exceed national benchmarks.

The curriculum at Robin Hood Junior School is designed around a "Challenge for All" philosophy. Teachers demonstrate expert subject knowledge and use a range of strategies to ensure pupils grasp complex concepts. In mathematics, the school employs a mastery approach, which explains why 57% of pupils achieved a high score in the subject in 2024.

Science and the humanities are integrated through thematic units that encourage critical thinking. In 2024, 92% of pupils reached the expected standard in science, well above the England average of 82%. The school also places a high value on literacy, with 20% of pupils achieving greater depth in writing. Specialist teaching is used effectively to enhance the curriculum, particularly in music and physical education.

The school prioritises the emotional and social development of its students alongside their academic progress. Each year group has a dedicated team of teachers and support staff who monitor pupil wellbeing closely. The school uses a "Zones of Regulation" framework to help pupils understand and manage their emotions, fostering a resilient and self aware student body.

Support for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is coordinated by a dedicated SENCO who ensures that individual targets are integrated into daily classroom life. The school's inclusion team works with external agencies to provide tailored support for those who need it, ensuring that every child is supported to "be the best they can be."

The extracurricular life at Robin Hood Junior is vibrant and varied. The school offers a range of clubs that cater to diverse interests, including the Coding Club, Chess Club, and the school's own choir. STEM excellence is a priority, evidenced by participation in regional robotics competitions and the popular "Meccatronix" society.

Sporting opportunities are extensive. The school makes use of its outdoor spaces and hall for a variety of sports, including netball, football, and cricket. The annual Year 6 residential trip is a highlight of the school calendar, providing pupils with opportunities for outdoor adventure and team building before they transition to secondary school.

As a state funded community school, admissions are coordinated by Sutton Local Authority. The school has a capacity of 360, with 90 places available in Year 3 annually. Priority is given to children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) naming the school, followed by looked after children and siblings.

A significant proportion of the intake comes from the Robin Hood Infant School. While there is no formal catchment area, the school is consistently popular. Parents are encouraged to use the FindMySchool Map Search to view their proximity to the school compared to previous intake patterns.

Pupils from Robin Hood Junior School move on to a variety of secondary schools across Sutton and the surrounding boroughs. Given the school's strong academic record, a significant number of pupils successfully navigate the 11-plus process for Sutton's grammar schools, such as Sutton Grammar School and Wallington County Grammar. Others progress to highly regarded local comprehensives, including Greenshaw High School and Glenthorne High School. The school provides robust transition support, including "taster" days and liaison between Year 6 teachers and secondary heads of year.

The school day runs from 8:45am to 3:15pm. The school operates its own staff led Breakfast Club in the Music Building from 7:30am to 8:45am each school day. For after school care, the school has an arrangement with the London Borough of Sutton's Play Service, which runs the Sutton Out of School Club based on site until 6:00pm. The school is well served by local transport, with Sutton Common station within walking distance and several bus routes (including the 80 and 151) stopping nearby.

• Junior School Entry: As this is a junior school, entry is at Year 3 (age 7). Families at the infant school must still apply for a place, though siblings and those attending the infant school typically receive high priority.
• High Academic Pace: With over 40% of pupils hitting the higher standard in core subjects, the pace of learning is brisk. This suits academically motivated children but may require additional support for those who find the transition from Key Stage 1 challenging.
• Admissions Deadlines: For September 2026 entry, the closing date for applications is 15 January 2026. Applying after this date may significantly affect the chances of securing a place.

Robin Hood Junior School is an academic powerhouse that remains deeply rooted in its local community. Its 2024 results are some of the strongest in the borough, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a high attaining environment without the fees of the independent sector. It is best suited to pupils who thrive in a structured, ambitious environment and who are looking for a clear pathway to Sutton's competitive secondary schools.